The performance potential of broiler breeding stock has improved tremendously during the past few years in Mzansi. These improvements have only been made possible through careful and intensive labour costs that go into the production. Joandra Gregory, a young Western Cape poultry farmer, shares her insights on broiler production.
There are a few things to consider when starting a broiler production, says Gregory.
Set up the proper structure
The first thing you have to do is set up a coop. However, “wannabe” chicken farmers need more than just housing to build a sustainable broiler farm, Gregory cautions. Being equipped with the relevant information will give them a headstart.
“Attend a workshop on poultry production so that you don’t waste too much money or time because a workshop can assist you with tips on how to start your project on a budget,” advises Gregory.
She emphasises that there should be no compromise on the building material for the coop. A farmer can use recycled materials but it is of utmost importance to adhere to the regulations.
“Coops and structures need to be built in a manner that you can adjust to weather conditions or seasons. There are no soil requirements, but there are biosecurity regulations to adhere to to ensure animal health. There are no shortcuts in poultry production. Please stick to a recommended diet as per industry standards,” says Gregory.
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Pests and diseases
Animals fall sick too. And in the case of chickens, there are a few diseases that can be fatal. Gregory shares some of these diseases that a farmer should be aware of to run a successful coop.
Avian flu: Avian influenza or bird flu is a disease caused by a virus that occurs naturally among birds, and sometimes infects pigs. The virus spreads easily, and poultry like chickens, ducks, and turkeys, if infected, can get very sick and die rapidly. Sometimes this virus can also infect humans.
Bronchitis is infectious and can cause egg production drops, runny egg whites, and thin, rough or odd-shaped egg shells. Mortality is not common in mature hens, but the virus may attack the airways, oviducts, or kidneys of young or unvaccinated birds.
Newcastle disease: An infection of domestic poultry and other bird species with virulent Newcastle disease virus (NDV). It is a worldwide problem that presents primarily as an acute respiratory disease, but depression, nervous manifestations, or diarrhoea may be the predominant clinical form.
Coccidiosis is caused by protozoan parasites from the genus eimeria. These parasites are host-specific, and many species occupy a specific segment of the intestinal tract. Coccidiosis may be one of the most common diseases affecting small flocks around the world, causing loss in performance and even mortality.
“Biosecurity will assist in curbing these diseases. Due to the short life span of broilers, timeous vaccinations and sticking to a vaccination schedule is extremely important,” says Gregory.
Input costs to keep in mind
According to Gregory, feed is the most expensive of the input costs. So as a startup farmer, make sure you buy all your feed needed for the growth cycle.
There are three different affordable feed starters, ranging from R50-R200. Gregory shares more information on feed starter packs on her website.
“It’s a lifestyle to live, [especially when you make] a living from it. It is not easy at all but if you love what you do, it will surely be worth it. In the poultry industry, quantity is key in all aspects of the industry. Maintaining a good growth cycle will ensure that you can supply regularly,” says Gregory.
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Types of chickens
Gregory says she wanted to see returns on her investment as quickly as possible hence her decision to go for broilers.
“It takes them up to six weeks to grow and after that, you sell them and then you make your money back.”
Importantly, the choice remains with the farmer whether it is a short-term or long-term goal.
Things to take into consideration:
- Broilers take up to six weeks to grow.
- Layers take up to 18-20 weeks (take into consideration input costs here).
Doing market research will be a vital point of departure. This helps a farmer understand where they will be able to sell and make money.
Impact of load shedding
Load shedding is a pain in all spheres of Mzansi. In the broiler production industry, it is no different.
“Load shedding makes things so difficult for the smaller farmer because now we have to increase the workforce at night so you need more people [to maintain the farm successfully],” says Gregory.
Gregory advises the following when load shedding happens:
- Lighting a fire to keep chicks warm.
- Extra light is needed for chicks (requires generators and petrol prices should be considered).
- Make sure someone is watching the chicks when temperatures drop (to not kill each other).
Finding a market
Finding a market that is best for your business is all part of the research. Gregory explains that it is important to consider all factors.
- See if you are close to your market;
- Where the produce can be stored;
- Transport costs;
- Labour costs;
- Input costs.
“Anybody and everybody can be your market, it just depends on how you offer your product and how far you are from your customer,” says Gregory.
BOOK NOW FOR BROILER TRAINING: Join us on Wednesday, 16 October 2024, at Golden Pipit in Centurion, Gauteng. Tickets at Quicket.
ALSO READ: Hatchery a boon for Limpopo chicken farmers
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